Outstanding Books for the College Bound

*Beginning in February 2017, YALSA will launch the new Teen Book Finder Database, which will be a one-stop shop for finding selected lists and award winners. Users will be able to search this free resource by award, list name, year, author, genre and more, as well as print customizable lists. This new resource will replace the individual award and list web pages currently on YALSA’s site that are not searchable and that are organized only by year.

The books on this list offer opportunities to discover new ideas, and provide an introduction to the fascinating variety of subjects within an academic discipline. Readers will gain an understanding of our diverse world and build a foundation to deepen their response to that world. This list is developed every five years.

A YALSA committee of public, secondary school, and academic librarians selects the list. Revised every five years as a tool for several audiences (students preparing for college, educators, librarians, and parents) it offers opportunities for independent reading and lifelong learning. Use it to round out your reading as you prepare for college entrance exams and courses, to strengthen your knowledge in a variety of subject areas and enhance appreciation for different cultures and times.

Select from the links below to read about the list and to read about titles in each of the individual sections.

Previous Lists

OBCB Products

OBCB Downloadable Pamphlets: download and distribute these to your teen patrons and students. Each themed pamphlet can be customized to include library information, hours or teen specific programming before making copies available to patrons. Both black and white and color versions of all the resources are included in this digital download, as well as a mini poster.

Outstanding Books for the College Bound: Titles and Programs for a New Generation

Edited by Angela Carstensen
ALA Editions, 2011

This completely revamped guide lists over 400 books deemed outstanding for the college bound by YALSA. This indispensable resource includes annotated lists and a variety of indexes for easy searching. The title is available in print or as an e-book. 2011. 176 pages. ISBN-13: 978-0-8389-8570-0. $45ALA/YALSA members, $50 all others. Visit www.alastore.ala.org to purchase.